The Ford Escape returns in 2017 as a popular cornerstone to its class with no shortage of strengths. Fairly good fuel economy, available all-wheel drive, useful cargo space and optional hands-free power liftgate combine to strongly embody compact-crossover features we expect. The Escape surprises with responsive steering and impressive handling.

Interior updates are modest, but the 2017 cabin includes several new practical storage areas throughout. One that stands out is a convenient storage ahead of the shift lever that seems perfectly made for a phone.

The Escape's dashboard design could stand a refresh, but you can opt for the new Sync 3 upgrade to significantly improve the look. Ford's Sync 3 interface woos infotainment fans and tech lovers with full smartphone integration by means of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

FordPass with the Sync Connect ownership app allows you to remotely connect to the Escape from your smartphone. Additional 2017 technology updates bring the Escape in line with contemporary safety options offered to drivers across the class, including lane-departure prevention, a driver drowsiness monitor and adaptive cruise control with forward collision alert.

The exterior design is evolved with Ford's newly imagined modern front-end styling as seen throughout its model line.

Ford gives the 2017 Escape two new turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engines. The 1.5-liter replaces the previous 1.6 but offers comparatively similar power and fuel economy. But at this size the turbo appears to improve fuel economy more than it does off-the-line speed. Performance seekers should consider a bump up to the updated 2.0-liter turbo engine if they can. This powerplant puts out more horsepower and torque than in previous years. With a zero-to-60 time of less than 7 seconds, the 2.0-liter earns the Escape a nod as one of the quickest-to-accelerate compact crossovers out there.

Three trim levels are available: S, SE and Titanium. You'll find select desirable options to be more affordable or even standard for 2017, like Ford's automatic climate control system which is newly standard on the midgrade SE trim level. S is the base trim. SE offers several enticing upgrades and customization routes such as the SE Technology package, Cold Weather package and Leather Comfort package. The fully featured Titanium sets the bar high with a broad suite of luxuries as well as its exclusive foot sensor for the power liftgate. Even sportier styling is possible thanks to the Sport Appearance add-on available for both the SE and Titanium trim packages.

With so many options, choosing the perfect crossover may seem like a challenge. Let Edmunds help find the one that is just right for you.

Our Review ProcessThis review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Ford Escape and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Escape 3.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Escape.

Vehicle Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

Review I purchased my 2017 Ford Escape AWD 2.0 L. November 2016. It is my first SUV I love it! The style is lacking compared to other competitors, like the Hyundai Santa Fe but I really enjoy the comfort, the quick acceleration, and maneuverability my whip has. The ride is so comfortable especially having black leather heated seats which is great for my low back pain. I agree that the inside panel could use some updating but it does have optional voice/touch navigation and ambient lighting with a variety of color choices. The cabin has plenty of room and it's easy to get in/out of. I did drive the 1.5L and it just didn't cut it, it seemed very resistive to acceleration. I test drove the Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CRV, and Kia Sorento the styling and amenities were tempting (especially in the Santa Fe) but the comfort, quietness, and acceleration just didn't cut it for me. My only complaints are gas mileage (doesn't compare to my 2015 Hyundai Sonata) and that I have to remember to shut the idle button off because the vehicle will "shut off" to conserve gas and it's annoying when sitting at a stop light or the drive thru.

Our Review ProcessThis review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Ford Escape and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Escape 3.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Escape.

Vehicle Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

Review I purchased my 2017 Ford Escape AWD 2.0 L. November 2016. It is my first SUV I love it! The style is lacking compared to other competitors, like the Hyundai Santa Fe but I really enjoy the comfort, the quick acceleration, and maneuverability my whip has. The ride is so comfortable especially having black leather heated seats which is great for my low back pain. I agree that the inside panel could use some updating but it does have optional voice/touch navigation and ambient lighting with a variety of color choices. The cabin has plenty of room and it's easy to get in/out of. I did drive the 1.5L and it just didn't cut it, it seemed very resistive to acceleration. I test drove the Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CRV, and Kia Sorento the styling and amenities were tempting (especially in the Santa Fe) but the comfort, quietness, and acceleration just didn't cut it for me. My only complaints are gas mileage (doesn't compare to my 2015 Hyundai Sonata) and that I have to remember to shut the idle button off because the vehicle will "shut off" to conserve gas and it's annoying when sitting at a stop light or the drive thru.